Solid earth geophysics

The course unit aims to deepen the knowledge of the physical mechanisms that regulate the dynamics of the deformation processes involving the crust-mantle system at small and large spatial and temporal scales.
Particular attention is devoted to the acquisition of the ability to physically model the deformation for a variety of geodynamic processes, such as intraplate deformation, subduction, extension and mantle convection, through the integration of the balance equations (conservation of mass, momentum and energy) and constitutive equations.

· Knowledge of the rheological properties of the Earth's interior;
· Knowledge of the physical laws that govern the processes that take place at different scales in our Planet;
· Knowledge of the principles of diffusion theory and understanding of the main deformation mechanisms in the crust and in the mantle;
· Ability to solve a complex problem using appropriate mathematical tools.